Robert stood on the battlements of Storm's End gazing south over Shipbreaker Bay. The setting sun cast the rough waves of Shipbreaker Bay in dazzling hues of red, orange, pink, and midnight blue creating what should have been a stunningly beautiful site. And it would have been, if the spot where he stood didn't have such a terrible memory attached to it. Robert took in the sight in front of him. The bay was about as calm as it ever was; but in his mind's eye, he could see the ruinous waves smashing the Windproud against the rocks that dotted the approach to Storm's End. He had come here, to the place where he had decided to run away and abandon his brothers, so that he could finally make some headway on correcting his mistake.
The evening meal he had shared with his brothers was by no means terrible, but Stannis continued to maintain his distance and chilly demeanor. No matter how much Robert tried to involve Stannis in the merrymaking going on around them, his brother would simply give a courteous yet cold response. Stannis had eventually excused himself early from the meal. Robert knew that if he asked him to stay, Stannis would out of a sense of duty and obedience. But Robert realized that it would probably only make things worse. And so, Robert had come to this specific spot hoping that it would help him assail the formidable defenses Stannis had constructed. Robert prepared himself to face his brother head on.
Robert heard footsteps climbing up the stairs behind him and turned to see his younger brother. Stannis wore a stony expression hiding any emotions that he might have been feeling, but Robert noticed his tense posture and stiff movement. Stannis clearly didn't want to be here, but Robert hadn't exactly given him a choice.
"Your squire told me that you require my presence," Stannis said in an even and icy tone.
"Yeah, well, requiring it was just about the only way I could make sure you actually came," Robert replied with a humorless chuckle.
"If you are here to jape, brother, please allow me to take my leave." Stannis was clearly doing his best to maintain his composure, but a subtle growl underpinned his words.
"No, I'm here to settle things between us. None of that 'as you say' or 'my lord' nonsense. We'll settle this thing as brothers."
"And what would you know about being a brother?" Stannis' voice ground out like gravel. His mask had fallen, and he wore a deep scowl.
"I know that I have tried being a good brother since I returned." Robert's tone was rising, all thoughts of de-escalating the situation forgotten.
"You can lie to Renly all you want, but I remember what happened, how you abandoned us. A hug and some encouraging words won't make up for that," Stannis nearly shouted back.
"You think I don't know that!" Robert now roared, stepping close to Stannis. Stannis didn't back down.
"If you knew, you would have stayed. You didn't have to travel across Westeros to learn to be a good brother and lord. You are a coward who ran from your duty!" He yelled back
"I came back!" was all Robert could say to defend himself.
"Two years! You were gone two years! And when you do return, you act like you had never left. You act like you did no wrong," Stannis growled.
"So, it's an apology you wanted? For me to come groveling back begging for your forgiveness?" Robert's anger was getting the best of him, and he couldn't help but balk at the thought. But Stannis did have a point. He had come back as if nothing had happened, as if he hadn't abandoned his family in their darkest hour. He did lie to Rely saying that he had gone away to learn to be a better brother. Nothing Stannis said had been false, but that didn't stop Robert from taking offense.
"No, I could never expect you to grovel." Stannis' words dripped with disdain. "When have you ever been wrong?"
"I've been wrong about plenty of things," Robert spat back.
"Oh? And what could cause the great Robert Baratheon to admit he was wrong?" Stannis was releasing all of the pent-up anger and frustration that had built up over the past few years.
"I died!" Robert roared. For a few moments only the sounds of the waves crashing upon the rocks below could be heard as Robert realized that he had slipped up again. "I nearly died," he corrected, letting out a sigh trying to calm himself. Stannis just stared at Robert, mouth slightly agape, shocked at the sudden admission.
"It was a hunting accident; I was drunk, and a boar got me," Robert quickly explained. He figured half truths were the best course of action here.
"Why weren't we informed?" Stannis said as he adopted his signature stony visage.
"I tried to hide it from everyone. Ned was the only one who knew how bad it was, and I asked him not to speak of it." Robert didn't really like lying like this, but figured it was about as close to the truth as he could admit.
"So, you almost died, kept it a secret from those who might need to know, and claim to have gained a new perspective on life because of it," Stannis spoke deliberately, looking Robert right in the eyes. "And the first thing you do is go north to find a bride?" He finished with a small bit of anger in his tone.
"Yes, I said it gave me a new perspective, not perfect wisdom," Robert said bitterly, stepping back and leaning against the crenelations on the wall. "It was actually Lyanna that pointed out how I had failed you and Renly. She forced me to see that I had chosen a new brother and new family and neglected the one I already had. I have wronged you both, and I am trying to make it better."
Stannis walked past Robert to the edge of the wall and stood staring out over the darkening waters as the sun slipped further beneath the horizon.
"Did you ask me here on purpose?" Stannis asked without looking over to Robert.
"I figured it would be as good a place as any to start making up for my mistakes," Robert admitted while turning to gaze over the waters as well.
"Do you miss them?" Stannis asked, his voice holding just the slightest waiver.
"Every day," Robert admitted. Once again, there was silence between the two brothers.
"I truly am sorry, Stannis," Robert eventually spoke up. "I am sorry for not being the brother I should have been." Stannis simply nodded his head in reply, but Robert could see the tension leave his brother's shoulders and his posture relax. Robert smiled and patted Stannis on the back.
"So, have your eye on any young ladies? You've grown into a strapping young man. I'm sure they've been fawning all over you when uncle holds court." Robert laughed as Stannis immediately stiffened up.
"I am not you, brother. I do not seek out fawning ladies," Stannis muttered in response.
"No, you're not me, but you have your own charms… I'm sure. Honestly, you're six and ten! It's about time we found you a lass worthy of House Baratheon. Maybe we can find a wife who can teach you to loosen up a bit," Robert said in a slightly suggestive tone and laughed as his brother reddened. "I tell you what, if we can't find a nice Stormlands lady for you, there is the tourney at Harrenhal coming up. Perhaps we can find a lady of high birth there who'll catch your eye."
"Please stop." was all Stannis could manage only causing Robert to laugh more.
"Fine, fine, let's get inside and get some rest. Tomorrow is looking like it will be a long day."
After the brothers had parted ways, Robert decided to take another walk around the keep rather than return to his chambers. As he ambled around the walls, Robert allowed himself to be cautiously optimistic regarding the progress he had made with Stannis. He understood that their vastly different personalities would inevitably cause friction, but at least this time around Robert recognized his brother's value and would do everything to make sure his brother saw it too. Getting him married to a good woman was part of that plan. Stannis was far too good for the likes of Selyse Florent. Robert must have been drunk when he allowed that to happen. No, he would help his brother find a woman who would balance out his dour personality. Besides, it was practically his duty to arrange his brother's marriage as head of the house.
Even after the walk, he still felt restless, and he figured he knew why. Tomorrow would be his first time holding court as Lord of Storm's End. In his mind, this was the final test to prove that he was indeed a changed man and that he was worthy of the second chance given to him. It was true that he had done much of the preparation earlier in the day with Stannis and his uncle, but he still felt uneasy. In the past, he would just ignore his problems and find distraction in wine and women. Having sworn off those vices, the only thing that calmed his nerves of late was prayer. Unfortunately, Storm's End did not have its own sept. The closest one was in the village in the nearby woodlands. It was about a ten-minute ride, and with the sun having finally set, he felt it a little late to make the trip. Fortunately, he found his home's godswood, a suitable replacement; perhaps he could commission statues of The Seven to place around the heart tree. After lifting up his prayers, he returned to his chambers and finally retired for the night.
In the morning, Robert was awoken once again by Walder, fortunately with no prodding required this time. As he began to prepare himself for the day, Robert mentally ran through his agenda. Court was to begin at midday, so he had several hours before he needed to prepare. As usual, he would start his day with a quick meal before heading to the training yard. Robert was seeing good progress from the boy and wanted to see how he would do sparring against some of the others his age. After that, he would forgo practicing at the tilts so that he could go back over everything that they had prepared the previous day. Then it was on to the main event for the day. To say he was looking forward to the hunt planned for when he was done with his duties as lord was an understatement. Focusing on the fun to be had afterwards was what he was counting on to get him through the mind-numbing boredom he was expecting.
The morning proceeded to fly by as he went about his business. He noticed that Walder, being big for his age, was starting to take on a bit of Robert's more aggressive and physical style of combat. When the boy sparred, it was like he took on a different personality. While going about his duties as a squire, Walder was quiet, courteous, and efficient. But during a fight, he shouted and attacked with a savagery that surprised those he was matched against. Robert overheard some of the men and boys wondering why he had brought a northern savage back with him. A stern gaze and sharp words from Robert silenced the gawkers, but he was sure that all kinds of rumors would begin to spread about the boy. Regardless of what others might say, he was more than pleased with the boy's progress. He was still very rough around the edges, and his movements were cumbersome at times, but all the marks of a true warrior were clear to be seen.
Despairing at how fast the morning had gone by, Robert proceeded to his solar in order to reread the notes and documents that had been prepared for court, as he was determined to get this right. Minutes turned to hours and the words started to blur together. On more than one occasion, Walder had to gently nudge Robert as he began nodding off. Finally, his uncle arrived and informed him that it was time. Robert jumped up from his desk and proceeded to the Round Hall of Storm's End where he would be holding court. As he took his seat, he saw that the hall had begun to fill with a number of his household and various visiting bannermen. He gave a nod to his uncle who stepped forward and announced the opening of the court.
"Lord Robert of House Baratheon, Lord Paramount of the Stormlands, Lord of Storm's End will now hear the petitions of his vassals, may the seven grant him wisdom in his judgment. First to present their cases are Lords Fell of Felwood and Buckler of Bronzegate."
The two lords strode out and knelt before Robert. Lord Fell was the younger of the two, but still had more than a decade on Robert. Memories of the single combat against Lord Fell surfaced in Robert's mind as he looked down at the Stormlord. He had fought valiantly and had given Robert quite a challenge; that victory was one that he cherished but hoped to not have to repeat. Lord Buckler was much older, probably past his fifth decade or so. Despite the gray streaks in his hair and lined face, the man was by no means weak.
"Rise my lords, I have seen your petitions and wish to hear what you have to say face to face," Robert said in an authoritative voice. If he had his way, he would just give his judgment now and be done with it, but there were certain protocols that had to be observed. "Lord Fell, as the primary petitioner, I will hear you first."
"Lord Baratheon, I request that the lands ceded to House Buckler be returned to me. It has been two score years and I believe the punishment has gone on long enough; our debt is paid. Let the ghosts of dead men be put to rest." Lord Fell's tone was strong and resolute.
"Lord Buckler, your response," Robert said, trying to keep things moving along.
"Lord Baratheon, my older brother died for those woods, and they were given over to my house by your grandfather, and your father affirmed that decision. Lord Fell says the debt is paid, as long as I draw breath, I say that debt will never be repaid," Lord Buckler said with a firm cold tone.
"Thank you, Lord Buckler. When I first heard of this dispute, I asked my uncle about what had happened. I am told that the knight who slew your brother was struck down as well. Is this not correct Lord Buckler?" Robert questioned.
"That is true, my lord." There was a slight stiffness in Lord Buckler's stance. It seemed as if the older lord could see where this was going.
"Yes, a life for a life. Forty years is a long time to hold onto a wound like that. It is best for the peace of the Stormlands if we, as Lord Fell says, let the ghosts of dead men rest," Robert replied with a winning smile and a commanding tone.
"My Lord," Lord Buckler quickly protested. "The life of a lowly knight is hardly worth the life of the heir to an ancient and noble house. You would dishonor the memory of my brother like this?"
"If my grandfather's writings are to be believed, your ancient and noble house was the aggressor in the original dispute. The ceding of land was only a means to make up the difference in station between the two men who passed. I see no reason why the punishment should continue; my ruling stands," Robert replied, glad that he took the time to reread the original notes of the case and thanking his grandfather for taking such meticulous notes. He would have to make sure that he had someone take care of that for him as well.
The two men bowed their heads to acknowledge his judgment, but the expressions on their faces couldn't be more different. The younger Lord Fell couldn't keep a satisfied smile off his face, and was probably just barely keeping himself from shouting in victory. Lord Buckler was practically shaking with anger, fists clenched hard enough to turn his knuckles white. Robert expected this response and already had a plan to smooth things over.
"Lord Buckler, I understand your displeasure over the ruling. I would like to invite you to hunt with me today. We can dedicate it to your brother's memory, and you can share with me all that you remember of him. Let there be no more bad blood between neighbors." Robert watched as a conflicted look passed over Lord Buckler's face. Even if it was the last thing Lord Buckler wanted to do, refusing the invitation could be seen as an insult. It was clearly a peace offering, and to not agree would make him look petty and spiteful. The older lord was silent for a few more moments before responding.
"I would be honored, my lord."
"Excellent! You are both dismissed. Now Uncle, who is next?" Robert was feeling pleased with himself; things were going well so far.
"That would be Ser Damon of House Wagstaff and Ser Eldon of House Brownhill," His uncle replied with little enthusiasm. At this, Robert tried and failed to hide a grimace. If he remembered correctly, this was a dispute over horse breeding rights. Robert sighed as he realized that the only interesting case to be handled today had come and gone with little fanfare. All that was left for him were petty squabbles and boring litigation. He let out a sigh and put on his best smile, preparing himself to wade through the rest of the day.
Robert proceeded to preside over petition after petition, dispute after dispute. It was as mind numbing and boring as he had expected. There were several occasions where he had completely tuned out the petitioners, and his uncle had to gently remind him of what had just been said. But Robert saw the light at the end of the tunnel when the last petitioners were called forth.
"Lord Baratheon will now see Ser Harrold of House Rogers of Amberly and his wife, Branda Rogers," his uncle announced. Robert saw that the knight of House Rogers was a powerful looking warrior and held himself with obvious pride. He wore a black crushed velvet doublet with the maze of his house's arms sewn into it with silver thread, obviously displaying the wealth that the amber trade brought to his house. Robert couldn't help but notice the mischievous grin the knight was wearing. Next, Robert's gaze fell on Lady Rogers and, for a brief moment, he thought Lyanna had traveled all the way from Winterfell to see him. But then he realized that the woman before him must have been well past her third decade in age. Regardless, the older woman strode in with all the stoic grace of a lady of Winterfell. She was taller than her husband by nearly a head and wore an elegant southern style dress done in house Stark colors. Her sleeves were embroidered with wolves chasing unicorns. As they knelt and curtsied, Robert remembered the letter he had received and smirked.
"Please rise. I think the missive I received from House Rogers is beginning to make sense. I assume that you are formally of house Stark, my Lady?" Robert asked. She looked puzzled for a moment and glanced at her husband quickly before putting on a courteous smile before addressing Robert.
"Yes, my lord, I am the aunt of your betrothed. My sister Lyarra, gods bless her memory, was Lyanna's mother. When I heard of my sister's passing, I asked my good-brother, Lord Stark, to inform me should my niece finally be betrothed. I seek permission to reside in Storm's End to help prepare it and you for its future lady. I fear the keep has gone too long without a lady's touch." Lady Rogers bowed her head as she made the request.
"Oh? You aren't interested in seeing if I am worthy enough to be joined with your house?" Robert said with a laugh. Branda Rogers froze and then slowly turned to her husband who was valiantly looking somewhere just to the right of where Robert sat, it seemed as if he was trying not to laugh. She turned back to Robert and put on a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. Shivers ran down Robert's back as he saw the wintery fury in her gray eyes, even if he knew that her anger was not directed at him.
"My apologies; I relied on my husband to pen our correspondence to you. I believe there might have been something lost in translation before it was sent to you," she replied in a tone that implied that her husband was in deep trouble.
"Think nothing of it. Of course you are welcome to stay in Storm's End. The Starks will soon be family, and I would not turn away their kin. Though my bride-to-be will not be coming here for some time. We agreed that she will need to see her eighteenth name-day first," Robert replied jovially.
"Thank you, my Lord. We will make arrangements when the time comes then." She gave another curtsy and grabbed her husband's arm and whispered something in his ear; his smile faded. Robert could tell that her grasp was stronger than one might expect from a lady. The Starks bred formidable women indeed. He wondered if that was what being married to Lyanna would be like: him doing stupid things, and her gracefully covering for them only to let him have it later. He was both excited and worried by the prospect. Eventually, Ser Harrold spoke up, looking quite chastised.
"Pardon, my lord. I have been reminded that the humor of House Rogers does not often translate well to the written word. Please forgive the impertinence on my part," the knight said, bowing his head. Robert just laughed.
"Frankly, I'm glad you did what you did. I got to see what I have signed up for. Please stay at Storm's End for as long as you like. I would love to speak to you and your lady wife later in a more private environment. I am sure there is a grand tale as to how a wolf-maid of the North found herself in the Stormlands."
"Nothing so grand my lord," Lady Rogers responded humbly.
"Of course. Well, I think that's everything, am I right uncle?" Robert asked that with an unmistakably hopeful tone.
"Yes, my lord; that was the last petition that required your attention," his uncle said with a bit of a smirk.
"Great! I believe I said a hunt was in order. Walder, go get my horse ready," Robert said, practically jumping up from his seat and proceeding quickly towards the exit, not paying any attention to any of the other nobles attempting to command his attention.
The boy had rushed out ahead of him, and Robert didn't have to wait long before Walder brought out several horses laden with everything one would need for the hunt; the boy was truly an efficient worker. Robert heard the barks of excited dogs and saw others preparing to join him. It was a beautiful day for a hunt, and it was just the excitement he needed after the mind numbing boredom of holding court. Eventually, Lord Buckler and his men joined Robert's hunting party, and they rode out to the nearby woods.
The hunt was successful in many ways. The hounds had flushed out one of the largest stags he had ever seen. When the mighty beast had finally been felled, they counted ten points on its antlers. It must have weighed almost twenty stone. Chasing such a magnificent creature also helped lessen Lord Buckler's foul mood. Robert was able to get the old lord to open up and share about his brother and what it was like to have a Lordship thrust upon him. Funnily enough, Robert was able to understand those feelings through his past friendship with Ned. By the time the hunting party began riding back to Storm's End, Robert had won over the Lord of Bronzegate. When he returned home, not only did Robert secure an excellent trophy for his chambers, he also secured the loyalty of one of his most powerful bannermen.
As Robert prepared to retire for the night, he reflected on the past few days. All in all, he felt that his return to Storm's End had been positive. He had made serious progress as both a brother and a lord. Most importantly, however, in just a few short moons he would be on his way to Harrenhal to reunite with his betrothed. If the gods were good, that would be where he could truly change history.
A/N Here we are, next chapter will be a summary of Robert's time in Storm's End and the trip to Harrenhal. Thank you for all the comments, they really help me keep this going. On another note, a friend of mine has agreed to start reviewing my work for grammatical errors. Hopefully the quality of the work will increase a bit.